What are some of the common Geriatric Health Issues you should be aware of?

As people age, their immunity and overall physical health start deteriorating. Hence, it is very important to take care of the health of the elders. It will help in managing health conditions and promote healthy living among them. In this article, we are going to share some of the common geriatric health issues. Developing an understanding of these health concerns can help you implement the necessary preventive measures required for the healthy aging of your loved ones.  

Chronic health conditions

Some of the most common chronic diseases that seniors usually suffer from are heart diseases, diabetes, blood pressure, obesity, cancer, etc. Besides, with advanced age, they also are at a health risk of suffering from a stroke. Most of these chronic conditions are responsible for causing at least two-thirds of death each year. As per the guidelines of the National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, seniors should meet their physicians at family clinic Nashville once every year for their annual health checkup. Additionally, they should also follow a healthy diet and practice exercises regularly for some time. Your doctors can also guide you in the right form of lifestyle and exercise routines that will keep you healthy. 

Cognitive Health

Cognitive health implies one's ability to think, learn, and remember things clearly. One of the most common cognitive health issues that senior citizens experience is dementia. Dementia is a group of health conditions in which the affected person experiences loss of memory and judgment. One of the most common forms of dementia is Alzheimer’s disease that affects a large number of people worldwide. The National Institute of Aging has also stated that chronic health conditions such as hypertension, diabetes; even substance abuse can increase the risk of dementia. You should consult your physician at a medical clinic in Nashville to develop a treatment plan to manage this health condition. 

Mental health

World Health Organization or WHO suggested that around 15 percent of adults over 60 years experience various forms of mental disorder. The most common among them is depression. It affects a large number of elders worldwide. However, this health concern often remains undetected and untreated. Sometimes, depression can be associated with other health conditions. Hence, managing these conditions can help in treating depression effectively. Besides, making healthy lifestyle changes and getting help from family, friends, and support groups can also help to manage depression.

Physical Injury

As you grow old, you will experience a loss of strength, flexibility, and balance. This further can lead to accidental falls resulting in fractured bones or bruising. The health conditions that mostly cause this type of weakness are osteoarthritis and osteoporosis. However, you can prevent getting hurt by working on your balance and flexibility. Various forms of physical activities can help you in this regard. You should consult your doctors at sierra family healthcare clinic regarding the same.

Sexually Transmitted diseases

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention revealed that around 21 percent of AIDS patients are over the age of 50 years. Additionally, they are also responsible for causing almost 37 percent of deaths of people over 55 years. Sexual needs and abilities vary among people of various ages. However, one does not get over sexual desire completely. Usually, seniors do not prefer using condoms. When these factors combine with their weaker immune system, they are likely to suffer from various sexually transmitted diseases. As many symptoms of HIV matches with that of aging, sometimes these forms of health conditions are diagnosed in an advanced stage among elders. As a result, it can become difficult to treat and prevent complications. 

Malnutrition

Malnutrition is another common geriatric health issue that can result in weakness of muscles and immune systems. Malnutrition can result from other health conditions such as depression, dietary restrictions, alcoholism, and limited earning. Even dementia can cause elders to forget about eating that further causes this form of health condition. You can consult with your doctors at the geriatric healthcare clinic Nashville to bring some changes in diet that will be beneficial for their overall health. 

Sensory Impairments

With growing age, seniors can experience impairments of senses such as vision and hearing. It can impact your quality of life and lead to mental states such as depression. Besides, vision impairment can also cause accidental trips and falls. CDC has also revealed that at least one out of 6 senior citizens experience impairment of vision while at least one out of four seniors experience difficulties in hearing. However, your doctors at the family clinic Nashville can thoroughly check you and suggest hearing aids or glasses for your eyesight depending on your situation. 

Oral health

Oral health issues are common in elders. The oral health of the CDC has found that around 25 percent of seniors over the age of 65 lack natural teeth. Cavities and tooth decay are quite common among them. Other forms of dental problems in seniors are gum diseases, dry mouth, and mouth cancer.  Regular dental checkups can help in preventing these health conditions.

Bladder control and constipation

Constipation and loss of bladder control are common geriatric health issues. Not only from aging, but these conditions can also result from other health conditions discussed above. Your doctors at the geriatric health clinic in Nashville can suggest you maintaining a healthy diet, weight, and regular exercise and prescribe medication to avoid these issues. 

With aging, the human body starts weakening on several aspects, and as a result, you can be prone to various illnesses. However, following your doctor's guidelines can help you to manage these conditions and avoid pain and discomfort in old age.